Ann's Table For Two by Ann M. Macey

Ann Macey lives in Western Massachusetts with her husband Wayne. Although she has no children of her own, her step-daughter, Kim, has given her the privilege of being a grandmother. As a dental hygienist, she has had no formal training in cooking. Her experience comes from observing her mother and both of her grandmothers. After receiving an award in high school for home economics, Ann’s teacher encouraged her to pursue a career in Home Economics and although cooking is her passion, she chose a career in dental hygiene and continues to work as a dental hygienist today. More information can be found at: AnnsTableForTwo.com

Thank you Ann for answering a few questions for us! Please tell us about your cookbook Ann's Table For Two.

My cookbook, 'Ann's Table For Two', is the result of becoming an expert in cooking for only two people. In an effort to be efficient, I attempted to make a carrot cake for my husband in a size that would last a day or two rather than an entire week. The success of the carrot cake led to a variety of cakes and assorted desserts for two. So, I continued to prepare and record other dishes resulting in the culmination of this cookbook.

Have you received any awards for your work?

Not for writing, but I did receive an award as a senior in high school in home economics.

Do you also do speaking engagements, or seminars?

I have done some speaking engagements in the past and hope to do more once my local (public access) cooking show is aired.

What kind of other works (books, scripts, poems etc.) have you had published?

I have self-published two children's books (books.trafford.com/05-1733). 'Emily and Jacob' are the stars of these stories and I hope to one day have all five of their stories published by a traditional publisher. I have extended ideas with these books along with a song already written for the first story. Although I have been able to sell about 450 copies of the first story and another 150 of the second, I am still unable to convince a traditional publisher that if the books could be distributed by someone other than me, they would certainly sell. As you know, self-published books are more expensive to print yet I was still able to sell them at $10 each when they should retail for half that price.

Is there any aspect to your profession that gets you in touch with your readers directly?

Since I am annoyed by the fact that I am never able to ask questions of chefs on the Food Network, I arranged it so that my readers could contact me by e-mail with their questions, ideas, comments, etc.

What will your next project be?

I am in the process of taping six episodes of my cooking show, 'Ann's Table For Two' with a local public access station. When those are completed, I will pursue book signings and I have been asked to do some speaking engagements. I wanted the shows to air prior to these events so people would know who I am and want to come. When all of this is rolling along, I have another book idea.

Who inspires you on a personal or business level?

Rachael Ray and Paula Deen. Neither of them went to culinary school and neither of them ever expected to be the success that they are. They just worked hard and God blessed them.

What type of work is the most rewarding or satisfying for you?

Organizing! I discovered many years ago that I love to come up with some wild idea, plan it, organize it, see it through, and go on to the next wild idea.

What can you recommend for writers who are just getting started and are trying to make a name for themselves?

I'm still waiting for someone to recommend something to me so I can make a name for myself.

How did you get started as a writer?

I always have a million lists going and thought that maybe my thoughts in these lists would be helpful to others...then I organized them. Sounds simple, but that is it.

Which is your favorite book/work published?

I hated reading when I was in high school and we were required to read six books every summer. Out of the eighteen, I force myself to read one: THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL. I loved the story and was very disappointed when I saw the movie. If there is ever a remake of this movie, I so hope that the producers will ask me to choose the actors...none of them were right for their parts in the original.

What does a typical work day look like for you?

Unless the day requires me to be working as a dental hygienist, there is no such thing as 'typical'!

Have you ever had a mentor, or someone who sparked your passion for writing?

I have mentors, but no one in particular. I have so many interests, that I seek advice from whomever might lead me in the right direction for that particular interest.

Who is your favorite author?

I guess I have to say Stuart Woods. I love a good murder mystery and he just makes me want to keep turning the page. And don't laugh, but as someone who's real passion is eating, I love how he can make me want to find a restaurant and order the current meal he is describing.

Finally, a most important question: what was the last song you sang out loud when you were by yourself?

White Christmas

Thank you Ann! We wish you great success with your cookbook and your cooking show Ann's Table For Two!

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